Don’t worry, I’m not one of those moms who likes to gatekeep her secrets; I will share my favorite things to ensure you spend your Back to School time more than just surviving and maybe even thriving! My kids never complain when I pack their favorite Lunchables in their lunchbox! I don’t know about you, but when I was a kid, only the coolest kids had those on the regular! Don’t tell my kids, but I still enjoy this nostalgic treat from time to time! Insert another nostalgic favorite with… OREO Minis. I don’t know why everything that is bite-sized just happens to taste better; this goes for both kids and adults! Now you’ll want a delicious drink to wash it down with, and you can’t ever go wrong with Capri Sun Roarin’ Waters. The sweetness of a juice and the hydration of a water, this is something both kids and adults love.

 Now that you have the perfect lunch packed, it’s time to feed those kiddos before, or often in my case, as you head out the door! I’ve got the perfect items to ensure you’re on time to the Drop Off Line! My oldest loves to grab Too Good: Strawberry Banana, and I love that he starts his day with 5 grams of protein! My two middle kids are always grabbing Danimals: Strawberry & Mixed Berry. They love these smoothies because they can continue to be on the go, and I love them because they’re made for growing kids! I can’t forget the littlest member of my crew, and for her, I’m always grabbing Happy Baby: Bananas, Raspberries & Oats. This is a favorite of hers, and they’re not kidding she’s one Happy Baby! I know that these favorites of ours will ensure you actually get to drink your coffee warm on the way to school! 

We did it! We survived drop off and we finally have a moment for ourselves. This is the perfect time to make a lunch that’s not only delicious but filled with fiber and protein that leaves us feeling great! What is on the menu you ask? Well I’m grabbing StarKist Chunk Light Tuna and another pantry staple, Bush’s Original Baked Beans. I always keep these items on hand because they’re the perfect quick lunch that I can feel good about! However, all this driving has left me quite parched. I love to treat myself to a Pink Lady Apple Health-Aid Kombucha. I know that this will help me better prepare for the calm before the storm…AKA School Pickup! 

The one thing that they don’t prepare you for in motherhood is all the germs that kids will bring home. Back to School time is a prime example of that, so before you head to get your favorite sidekicks, make sure you’re stocking your house, car, bathroom, purse, and their backpack with the tried and true favorite, Kleenex Facial Tissues. I love that these tissues are gentle enough for little noses, but still get the job done when sniffles enter the scene! 

I don’t know about you, but a practice run of my day sure does make me feel better about Back to School time looming on the horizon. Another thing that always makes me feel better is a good giveaway, so I’m excited to share that from July 13th through September 13th, five lucky winners will each receive a $100 Commissary Gift Card. Enter at MMSGiveaways.com. If that giveaway didn’t get you in the Back to School spirit, we’ll also be making a donation to the Fisher House Foundation Scholarship for Military Children Program. The program awards 500 scholarships of $2,000 each to military children at participating commissaries around the world every year.

So even though back-to-school time may feel a little chaotic with a trip to your favorite local Commissary, you will enter this era thriving and not just surviving! 

The burger station was the main event. I set out juicy grilled burgers, melty Kraft Singles, sliced avocado, lettuce, tomato, onions, and pickles so everyone could build their own plate. For a fun twist, I mixed ketchup and mayo with a little chipotle seasoning for an easy burger sauce and added a drizzle of A.1. Sauce to the Cali-style burgers. I also kept classic ketchup, mustard, and mayo on the table because no cookout is complete without them. One thing I always recommend when hosting? Make at least one cold side dish ahead of time. I made mainly all of them ahead of time.

I made a simple pasta salad with rotini pasta, chopped veggies, mozzarella, and Kraft Zesty Italian Dressing and it ended up being one of the first empty bowls of the night. It’s easy, inexpensive, and tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours before guests arrive. I also added a Cobb salad with ranch dressing because having at least one fresh option balances out all the burgers and chips.

For comfort-food sides, I kept it simple with Velveeta Shapes & Cheese. Honestly, easy crowd-pleasers are the secret to stress-free hosting. Nobody’s expecting a five-star menu at a pool party, they just want food that tastes good and feels nostalgic.

My favorite hosting hack of the night was using Cool Whip on cupcakes instead of traditional frosting. It stayed light and fluffy in the heat and made desserts super easy to prep ahead of time. I also recommend keeping extra towels outside, using disposable trays for easy cleanup, and setting up a self-serve food table so people can snack whenever they want.

By the end of the night, there were wet flip-flops by the pool, empty burger trays on the tables, and people still hanging around the grill talking long after sunset. It was the perfect summer party to me….simple food, summer nostalgia, and a backyard full of people having a good time.

As a huge thank you to military families past and present, you have the opportunity to enter an amazing sweepstakes. In celebration of America’s 250th birthday, Stories of Service is giving away FIFTY $100 gift cards. And what’s even better is that if you share your story and are selected as a winner, you can pick between a Commissary or Exchange gift card.

It’s so easy to enter. Just head over to their website and tap the link, enter your info and join the celebration! You have until July 6th to enter, so don’t miss your chance.

Food-wise, I’ve been trying not to skip meals, but I need something quick. OIKOS yogurt has been clutch because I can throw in some fruit, and it actually holds me over. Starkist Tuna has been just as helpful. I can eat it with crackers and call it a day when I don’t feel like figuring out a full meal.

Drinking water is something I’m always trying to do better with, so I’ve been more consistent. MiO helps because I can switch up the flavor when I get bored, and it’s even helped my kids drink more water without always reaching for juice.

I’ve also been more mindful about what I’m drinking besides coffee and water, and Health-Ade Kombucha is something I’ll grab when I want something different without reaching for soda.

Some of the other things I keep stocked are just everyday staples that make life easier. Cottonelle is one that I don’t ever want to run out of. Bush’s Baked Beans are an easy side, and Oscar Mayer is a go-to for quick lunches when I need something fast. Honey Maid Graham Crackers have been in rotation for snacks because the kids actually eat them, and Beggin’ Strips are a must for the pup; he hears the bag and comes running every time.

I’m just trying to be consistent with what works for me. If something is easy and fits into my routine, I’m more likely to stick with it. And honestly, stocking up on the things we actually use has made a bigger difference than I expected. It saves time, cuts down extra trips, and helps me stay on budget without overthinking it.

While you’re stocking up, you can enter the Stock Up & Save Sweepstakes at MMSsweepstakes.com for a chance to win. Five winners will each receive a $100 Commissary gift card!

This program supports Operation Homefront, which helps provide relief and support to military families. Knowing that the everyday shopping I’m already doing can also give back in some way just makes it feel a little more meaningful.

Ingredients:

• Simply Lemonade
• Ocean Spray White Cran Strawberry Juice
• Freeze dried strawberries

Directions:

1. Fill the cup with ice or as much as desired.
2. Place a handful of freeze dried strawberries in a cup.
3. Fill the cup halfway with Lemonade.
4. Pour Ocean Spray White Cran Strawberry Juice to fill the cup.
5. Place a lid on the cup and swirl to mix or use a spoon to mix.
6. Enjoy!

Add this refreshing drink to your rotation this spring and summer. It is a great addition to any picnic or backyard BBQ, and the best part is adults and kids will enjoy this cool refreshment. This is a part of the Quench Your Thirst series!

Find Out More with My Military Savings and Food & Drink!

There are many things you can do as a parent to prepare your teen for “The Real World”. Now, this takes patience, especially since kids think they have all the answers. Try to focus on ensuring your child can apply basic life skills, time and financial management, problem solving, and self care. 

Here are some helpful tips:

• Basic Life Skills: Driving, cooking, cleaning, doing laundry, using basic tools, and looking for a job.
• Time Management: Prioritizing tasks, studying, completing assignments on time, and using a planner.
• Financial Management: Managing a checking account/debit card, building savings/emergency fund, and budgeting.
• Problem Solving: Identifying the problem, using critical thinking skills, and developing solutions.
• Self-Care: Take breaks when stressed, disconnect from social media, take care of your physical health, and choose your friend groups wisely.

If your child will remain at home while attending college, you’ll have more time to focus on development. However, those who are getting your child ready to leave the nest will have limited time to prep before dropping them off on campus. I highly recommend starting to purchase the dorm essentials early as the costs can add up quickly. Below is a basic list of things your child could need for the dormitory.

Dorm Essentials:

• Personal/Health Items: Toiletries, towels, pillows and blankets, shower tote, shower shoes, and medications/prescriptions.
• Laundry Supplies: Detergent, fabric softener, laundry basket, and hangers.
• Room Essentials: Food storage containers, bedding, plates, utensils, alarm clock, and wall hooks. 
• Supplies: Calendar, laptop, pens/pencils, highlighters, paper, backpack, folders, and binders.
• Appliances: Coffee maker, small fan/heater, TV, and lamp.

It’s crazy how fast eighteen years seem to fly by, but early preparation will ease some stress for you as a parent and your future student. Be sure to maximize your savings by stocking up on essentials at your local Exchange and Commissary. Enjoy your time together before they head off to college and make as many great memories as you can.

Explore more with My Military Savings and Military Life & Family!

Things to Do Before a Road Trip with Your Pet: 

• Plan your stops: If possible, map out your route to include pet friendly stops for potty breaks. Planning ahead for overnight stays is recommended as well since all hotels don’t accept pets. Keep in mind hotels may charge an additional fee for pets so you may need to budget a little extra money.
• Pack a pet travel bag: Pack a bag that includes all the essentials (leash, feeding/water bowls, toys, treats and poop bags). 
• Immunizations: Make sure your pet is up to date on all shots prior to leaving your duty station. If the need arises to board your pet, you may be required to show proof of vaccination.
• Prepare your vehicle: If you don’t already have one, it’s highly recommended to purchase a seat cover or large blanket to protect your car seats. Be sure to lock your windows and doors to avoid any issues while driving.
• Pet Identification: Ensure your pets contact information is up to date on their collar/tag just in case they get loose or wander off. 

Road trips can be so much fun. Plan a few stops to take in the sights and create memories along the way. This also gives everyone a chance to stretch their legs and get some fresh air. Did you know that some pets can experience motion sickness? 

Follow these tips for a stress free and exciting adventure. Can you think of any other ideas?

Find Out More with My Military Savings and Pets!

The PCS-Season Planning Timeline:
First, back-plan from your “keys by” date. Pick your “keys by” target, then work backward. Start with the moment you want to be moved in. Then, reverse engineer your timeline. For example, if you want the keys by early June, then aim to be under contract by mid-end of April. Begin serious touring and ready-to-move offers by March. This means, in February, you’ll start your prep stage (pre-approval, budget, must-haves, neighborhoods).

Why so early? That’s because even when everything goes smoothly, the path from offer to closing still includes multiple moving parts. Inspection negotiations, appraisal timing, and lender underwriting can all add time. One delay can push you into the busiest weeks of PCS season. If you want to close by summer, start seriously looking in March, not May. Then, make sure you have a solid team in place to get through this process!

If you can do one thing that lowers stress, it is this: choose people who understand military timelines. Find a realtor familiar with military families and VA transactions. A VA-friendly realtor helps you move quickly without skipping steps. They are used to coordinating video tours, remote paperwork, tight deadlines, and the reality that life can change quickly with orders.

Questions to Ask Your Realtor:
1. How many VA closings have you handled recently?
2. What appraisal-related issues come up most for VA buyers in this area?
3. How do you structure inspection deadlines and repair negotiations when the market is moving fast?
4. If we are buying from out of state, what is your plan for walkthroughs and quick decisions?

VA Loan Factors First-Time Buyers Should Know:
These are the things most military families ask early, and they can impact your timeline. Look into VA occupancy and options for being able to rent the home later. VA home loans are designed for primary residences, not investment properties. The big idea is good-faith intent to occupy the home as your main place to live.

A lot of people ask, “How long do I have to wait before I can rent it out?” There is not always one universal “wait this many months” rule. What matters most is that you planned to live there first. If PCS orders or life changes happen later, renting may be possible, but it is smart to talk to your lender early, because lenders can have extra rules on top of VA guidelines. Just remember, buy it to live in it first. If PCS orders change the plan later, confirm options with your lender early.

With a VA loan, you will have a VA appraisal. An appraisal is not the same thing as a home inspection. The appraisal supports the home’s value and checks for baseline safety and livability standards. If something comes up that does not meet those standards, it can turn into a required repair before closing. A home inspection is your deeper look at the home’s condition and systems. Even though it is not always required, it is one of the best ways to protect yourself as a first-time buyer because it helps you understand what you are walking into and what you might need to budget for. The VA appraisal helps you qualify and close. The inspection helps you buy smarter and negotiate with confidence.

More Questions to Ask Your Realtor:
1. If we need keys by ___, when should we start touring and offering?
2. What is normal here in spring…for example, days on market, multiple offers, and offer deadlines?
3. What contingencies are still realistic right now?
4. What issues are common here: drainage, flooding, termites, foundation movement?
5. What is the typical age range for roofs and HVAC in this neighborhood?
6. If we PCS in 2 to 3 years, does this area rent well?
7. What VA appraisal conditions show up most often in this market?
8. If repairs are needed, how do you usually negotiate: repairs, credits, or price adjustments?

Home Inspection Questions That Actually Help:
1. What are the top 3 safety concerns, if any?
2. What will likely cost us money in the first year?
3. What maintenance should we put on a calendar?
4. Where are the shutoffs and how do I use them?
5. Is there evidence of past leaks or moisture problems?

Treat the inspection like a lesson, not a pass/fail report. If the report flags expensive items (roof near end of life, aging HVAC), do not panic. The inspection is information. It helps you decide what you can handle, what you want to negotiate, and what you should plan for right away.

Finally, you’ve reached the home stretch. Insurance is one of the easiest places to accidentally under-prepare, especially during a PCS rush. Do this early. Confirm you understand deductibles (wind, hail, named storm, etc.) Ask what is covered and what might require separate coverage. Store policy docs and a home inventory in shared cloud storage that both spouses can access. For paper versions, store those in a fireproof/waterproof container. Your emergency fund is part of being “insurance-smart,” because not every home issue turns into an insurance claim.

Buying during PCS season does not have to feel like guesswork. Starting early, working with a realtor who understands military life, and knowing how VA loans and inspections work can help you make more confident decisions. The goal is not to do everything perfectly. It is to stay prepared enough that you can move forward with less stress and more clarity. After all the back-planning, paperwork, and decision-making, getting those keys is a big deal. Take a moment to celebrate how far you have come.

Find Out More with My Military Savings and Military Life & Family!

Feel free to decorate your space with festive decor. You can display flags, a festive tablecloth, centerpieces or colored utensils as a simple way to brighten up your table.

It doesn’t matter if you prefer gas or charcoal; go ahead and fire up the grill! We’d love to know what flavor combinations you come up with. All your favorite condiments and ingredients for side dishes, desserts and drinks can be picked up at your local Commissary.

Find the full recipe for the American cheeseburger on mymilitarysavings.com/recipes/dinner/american-cheeseburger  

There are always two sides to winter, the cold side and the cozy side. One minute I’m bundling up, heading outside into the cold, about to hit the slopes and see wide open views. The next, I’m back inside, wrapped in a blanket, warming my hands around a mug and planning what snacks I’m making later while watching the Winter Sports Games. It’s the season of finding a balance and lately, I have had some help leaning into that with Gold Medal Deals.

As someone who loves being prepared (especially when the weather turns unpredictable), stocking up on everyday favorites just makes life easier. Whether it is quick pantry staples for busy days, Kleenex Tissues for cold chilly days, to comfort foods for slow nights in, or grab-and-go snacks for early mornings, these deals make it simple to keep everything on hand without overspending. It feels like setting yourself up for small wins all winter long.

What I love most is how these savings fit into my real life. Mornings start with STOK Cold Brew and International Delight Cold Foam Creamer, something easy and energizing before heading out the door. Afternoons turn into quick snack breaks or simple lunches of tuna fish and chips thanks to Starkist Tuna and a few OREOS thrown in on the side or Del Monte Sliced Peaches that don’t require a ton of effort. Evenings are all about winding down, watching the Winter Sports Games live, and creating a cozy warm meal of homemade chili with Velveeta Cheese, Bush’s Original, Simply Organic Smoked Papirika, Heinz Ketchup and a few of those little pantry essentials you normally do not think about until you really need them. It is not fancy recipes or complicated routines. It’s about making everyday moments feel just a little more effortless.

And the timing couldn’t be better. Gold Medal Deals are available now through March 22nd, which means you can refresh your pantry and home for the rest of winter and into early spring. It’s the perfect window to stock up, save money, and feel good about what you’re bringing into your routine.

There’s also a fun bonus: while you’re shopping, you can enter the Gold Medal Deals Sweepstakes at MMSSweepstakes.com for a chance to win. Five lucky winners will each receive a $100 Commissary gift card….which honestly is the ultimate pantry restock prize.

Even better, this program proudly supports Fisher House Foundation, helping provide comfort homes for military and veteran families while their loved ones receive medical care. Knowing that your everyday shopping can also help support families during some of their hardest moments makes these deals feel even more meaningful.

This winter brave the cold, stay cozy indoors, or something somewhere in between, Gold Medal Deals are a simple way to save, prepare, and make winter a little easier.